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Former Eagles defensive coordinator Todd Bowles may not have been a success in his one season in Philadelphia, but his current job with the Cardinals may be the key to a head coaching opportunity. Bowles led the sixth-ranked defense in the league and helped Arizona finish with a 10-6 record. With the Cardinals barely missing the playoffs, Bowles is available for head coaching interviews.
The Lions, Browns and Vikings have all reportedly asked for permission to speak with Bowles. The Vikings and Lions both fired defensive-minded head coaches on Monday and could be in the market for a candidate with a similar background to take over operations. Minnesota let go of Leslie Fraizer but are interested in Bowles, according to FOX Sports Mike Garafalo. Detroit fired Jim Schwartz after five seasons and have asked the Cardinals about interviewing Bowles, per NFL Media's Albert Breer.
The Browns fired Rob Chudzinski after just one season and are looking to take the team in another direction. Cleveland wants to talk to the Cardinals coordinator, according to CBS Sports Jason La Canfora. Interviewing Bowles not only gives teams options, but also satisfies the Rooney Rule that requires franchises interview at least one minority candidate.
Bowles previously served as the interim head coach of the Miami Dolphins during the close of the 2011 season. Following his exit from Miami, he was hired by Andy Reid to be the defensive backs coach and possibly a future successor in Philadelphia. The mid-season firing of Juan Castillo pushed Bowles into the defensive coordinator spot with a divided coaching staff. He fizzled out of Philadelphia with the end of Reid's tenure. He was hired in the same role after former Colts offensive coordinator Bruce Arians was hired by Arizona.
Bowles also played defensive back in the NFL for 8 seasons before becoming a coach. He played for the Redskins and 49ers from 1986-1993.
